Charity launches appeal for new centre

A Tavistock-based children’s charity that provides free respite breaks for disadvantaged has launched an appeal to help open their new centre, with a little help from comedienne, Jennifer Saunders.

CHICKS has been running for 23 years and supports young carers and disadvantaged UK children suffering from issues such as poverty, neglect and abuse.

The charity currently has two retreats in Brentor, Devon and Tywardreath, Cornwall but, with demand for their service increasing, has recently purchased a third site near Ashbourne, Derbyshire. With this third centre, which the charity is calling Daleside Retreat, CHICKS aims to help more children from the Midlands and the north of England, providing them with a much needed break in the beautiful countryside of the Derbyshire dales.

CHICKS patron and comedienne, Jennifer Saunders, is backing the Daleside Retreat Appeal and said: ‘‘A new retreat will benefit hundreds more children who will be able to enjoy the safety, comfort and opportunities that CHICKS offers. Having supported the charity for many years, I genuinely believe that CHICKS provides hope and unforgettable experiences for children who have little…I hope that others will join me in supporting the appeal and help bring this inspirational project to fruition.’’

The Daleside Retreat Appeal is raising funds to refurbish and equip the new site which is expected to cost around £400,000.

Head of Fundraising and Communications, Tim Bunting, said: ‘‘This is going to be an exciting but very challenging year for the charity. We have been able to purchase the property thanks to some very generous funding but in many ways, the real work begins now.

‘‘There’s a lot of construction work that will need to take place so that we can create safe, fun play areas for the children, a new kitchen and dining room need to be installed and equipment for the whole site needs to be purchased.

‘‘CHICKS helps children from right across the UK and has been supporting children from the Midlands area for over 20 years. Unfortunately, we’re still relatively unknown in the area. A big part of the challenge will be raising awareness of who we are and getting as many people on board as possible to help us with the project.

‘‘If anyone would like to get involved with fundraising, volunteering or just wants to take a look at the new Daleside Retreat, please get in touch. We need as much support as we can to get Daleside up and running so that we can welcome the first children as soon as possible.’’

During their week-long break at CHICKS the children have the opportunity to go horse riding, rock climbing and swimming as well as taking part in more traditional childhood activities such as flying kites and toasting marshmallows over campfires.

Since it began in 1992, CHICKS has provided over 13,500 breaks for disadvantaged children, giving many of them the first ‘holiday’ of their lives.

To find out more about CHICKS call 01822 811020, email info@chicks.org.uk or visit www.chicks.org.uk